Sen. Lincoln responded to recent comments on his position on gay marriage. He’s come under fire from some conservative Catholics because he favors gay marriage and receives communion when he attends Catholic mass. A few critics have demanded that Lincoln voluntarily cease receiving communion or that the Church take action.
After a recent speech in Philadelphia, Lincoln was asked to comment on his position. “My position is that when it comes to government recognition of marriage, nothing precludes two people of the same sex from marrying. I would oppose any action that would obligate religious groups to recognize all government-sanctioned marriages, however. I think it’s as simple as that. Gay couples shouldn’t be prevented from receiving the same benefits as married heterosexual couples.”
“I haven’t always had this position, and I wouldn’t say that I favor gay marriage–in so many words. Years ago, I believed that civil unions, partner benefits, adoption rights, and so on would achieve the same thing. I didn’t see a need to use the language of marriage. In part, I still feel that way personally, but the whole political climate of the country pushed me in this direction.”
“As the right wing began to use anti-gay marriage ballot issues to advance other causes, I changed my mind. I think that all these state initiatives and efforts at the federal level were meant to achieve other ends. I think they tried to exploit bigotry and fear and ignorance in order to raise money and elect candidates. I know some of the people who launched these efforts. They have gay friends and colleagues–gay family members. I’m not sure how they look those people in the face. But sometimes, I believe that the depth of their concern on this issue isn’t matched by their desire to advance other causes–like tax cuts.”
“It’s not all that different from the approach some of them seem to take on abortion. They exploit the issue to achieve other ends, because they know that their friends will always be able to get abortions.”
“Anyway, when I realized this was what was going on, I took a second look at the issue and ended up where I am now. In point of fact, I have never voted in favor of gay marriage. The good people of Minnesota saw to it that I didn’t have an opportunity to vote in Congress on more recent bills. I did vote in favor of traditional marriage in the Defense of Marriage Act years ago, but I think I’d see that differently now.”
So far, no bishops have indicated an interest in singling Lincoln out to be denied communion. An unnamed advisor to a bishop said, “No one is anxious to get into the wafer wars again. This particular stand of Mr. Lincoln’s is disappointing, of course, but I think most bishops would, so far at least, wish that he would make the decision not to receive communion.” He later added, “Of course, Mr. Lincoln really hasn’t popped up on many people’s radar screens so far.”